Raynor HCA 2013-07
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/18/2013
The collection consists of five documents spanning the dates September 27, 1861, through October 17, 1861. Col. Thomas H. Ruger, 3rd Wisconsin Infantry, was stationed at Frederick, Maryland, when he reported that "A quantity of salt, probably in sacs is supposed to be at Groves Warehouse near Sharpsburg landing on the Canal. Mr. Gibson...is supposed to have knowledge in the matter." Later, he receives orders to keep a "...constant and close observation of the movements of salt, so important to the enemy, and now moving in large quantities...The control of the trade at Frederic [Frederick] Junction in that vicinity whether by rail or turnpike, will be, based...upon the principle that it is in no case to be made subservient to the uses of the enemy...you will keep close watch of the movements of large articles...we have no desire to cripple, but rather to strengthen the legitimate commerce of the people of Maryland." Of the command of the railway, he is told "...the enemy must in no case be allowed the use of the Road, its rolling stock, or machinery for hostile purposes...you will therefore constantly observe what proportion of cars or machinery, or rolling stock of any character is kept...You will bear in mind also the possible destruction of the Roads and Bridges...The Companies now at Monocacy Bridge will be withdrawn, and your own force substituted for the present." Included is a report dated October 9 giving a full list of trains and their cargo traveling the lines from Frederick Junction to Baltimore. Ruger's men were relieved of their duty on October 17 as "The object for which the detail...was made having been accomplished and there being no immediate necessity for them to remain longer here, they are ordered to return to Frederick by rail..." The men of the 3rd Wisconsin would continue throughout the war seeing action at Antietam, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, and Sherman's Atlanta Campaign
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